Understanding SSL Certificates

What is an SSL Certificate?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the industry standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a web server (your site) and a browser (visitor, prospect, client). This link ensures that all data passed between the web server and browser remains integral, encrypted – private and secure.

Without an SSL Certificate, your company information will not be digitally connected with a cryptographic key. A secure connection will not be established, the data exchanged between the web server and browser will not be encrypted and therefore exposed to potential internet risks.

SSL Certificates has following information:

Name of the Holder

Serial Number and Expiration Date

Copy of the Certificate Holder’s Public Key

Digital Signature of the Certificate-Issuing Authority

Why are SSL Certificates Critical?

1. Encrypts Sensitive Information

The information you send on the Internet is passed from computer to computer to get to the destination server. Any computer in between you and the server can see your credit card numbers, usernames and passwords, and other sensitive information if it is not encrypted. When an SSL certificate is used, the information becomes unreadable to everyone except for the server you are sending the information to.

2. Protects You From Cyber Criminals

According to Cybersecurity Ventures, cybersecurity damages will cost the world over $6 trillion annually by 2021.

It is impossible to escape the rising tide of Cyber Crime if your website doesn’t have an SSL certificate. They will identify weakness(es) in your network…mostly, when information is transmitted.

You surely can protect yourself from this mess by installing SSL certificates that offer a vital means of defending against transit-based hacks.

3. Builds Trust & Brand Power

With SSL Certificates, your customers will see visuals like a lock icon and green address bar validating that security and visitor safety is a priority.

Conclusion

Before Google flags your website as “Not Secure”, take the 1st Step in Securing your website today with an SSL Certificate.